Are These Harmful "Volatile Organic Compounds" Hiding in Your Home?

If you're into a  healthy lifestyle, you've probably heard the term "volatile organic compounds", or VOCs for short.  Most likely you know then  it's not a good term, but most people don't really know anything else about these contaminants.
VOCs are chemical contaminants that are emitted from solids and liquids. All solids and liquids that include VOCs also include a carbon chain.  Any substance containing carbon is called an "organic".  While some carbon-containing products are relatively stable, or "inert", as it is printed  on the can or jar's label,  others are highly volatile, meaning they can break down into different substances and chemicals pretty easily. VOCs also build up in indoor places, therefore concentration levels in  indoor air quality can be 2 to 5 times as concentrated as compared to outdoors.

There are over 900 of VOCs, and they're present in products like

1) paints, solvents and aerosol sprays
2) air fresheners
3) household cleaners and disinfectants   
4) pesticides
5) nail polish
6) vinyl shower curtains
7) moth repellants
8) fuels and auto products
9) building materials
10) glues and adhesives
11) drycleaning chemicals, and
12) furniture and carpets.          

The EPA estimates that the concentrations of indoor VOCs resulting from paint stripping can reach as high as 1,000 times the concentration of the outdoor levels.  And that is just one product!
While many VOCs have short-term health effects, others can do serious long-term damage. Some VOCs, such as benzene are well-known carcinogens, while others are "suspected" carcinogens.

In the short-term, common health issues include eye, nose and throat irritation, headache, nausea and temporary loss of coordination. The long-term health effects are somewhat scary. VOCs can damage your liver, kidneys and central nervous system.
Common reported  symptoms of VOC exposure also include an allergic skin reaction, shortness of breath, vomiting, nosebleeds and fatigue.